Communication Studies theories: overview by category

A selection of the theories used in our Communication Science programmes are bundled in a compilation and publicly available. Students can use these theories as a rich source for a better understanding of the theoretical field of communication. Choosing a theory for an assignment or report is made easier, since you are able to ‘browse’ through the different theories. All theories which are selected are used in the courses programme. Stay critical when you use a theory, because theories are subjectively measured. A lot of theories are mentioned, make your own judgment about which theories are most helpful and think why they are helpful.

The following theories are described in our document:
• Adaptive Structuration Theory	• Media Richness Theory
• Agenda-Setting Theory	• Medium Theory
• Altercasting	• Mental Models
• Argumenation Theory	• Minimalism
• Attraction-Selection-Attrition Framework	• Model of Text Comprehension
• Attribution Theory	• Modernization Theory
• Classical Rhetoric	• Network Theory and Analysis
• Cognitive Dissonance theory	• Priming
• Computer Mediated Communication	• Protection Motivation Theory
• Contextual Design	• Psycho-Linguistic Theory
• Coordinated Management of Meaning	• Reduces Social Cues Approach
• Cultivation Theory	• Semiotic Theories
• Dependency Theory	• Social Cognitive Theory
• Diffusion of Innovations Theory	• Social Identity Model of Deindivuation Effects
• Domestication	• Social Presence Theory
• Elaboration Likelihood Model	• Social Support
• Expectancy Value Theory	• Speech Act
• Framing	• Spiral of Silence
• Gatekeeping	• System Theory
• Health Belief Model	• Theory of Planned Behavior/ Reasoned Action
• Hypodermic Needle Theory	• Transactional Model of Stress and Coping
• Information Theories	• Two Step Flow Theory
• Knowledge Gap	• Uncertainty Reduction Theory
• Language Expectancy Theory	• Uses and Gratifications Approach